High-Tech Nitrous Part 2 - Venom's Ultra High-Tech VCN-2000

In the realm of nitrous injection, Venom's VCN-2000 is the tip of the spear when it comes to high-tech sophistication, innovation and tuning capability. Part revolution, part evolution, the VCN-2000 is a single-nozzle operation that's totally computer programmable. The VCN-2000 comes with a Palm Pilot M100 preloaded with the proprietary Venom software as well as floppy discs for use on laptop PCs. The floppy discs also include vehicle-specific instructions.

The VCN-2000 module uses input from the TPS, oxygen sensor and an engine speed/rpm signal. The kit includes a harness that will allow the installer to tap into these sensors. Venom's instruction manual outlines how to do this and pays extra attention to sensors fitted with shielded cables.

A harness for the injectors is also part of the installation. These connections will allow the module to execute fuel enrichment via the stock injectors. A voltmeter is used to ensure the connections are legit; any fluctuation of current here could mean a lean condition. The LCD display screen is then positioned in the cockpit and wired into the proper harness set. It should be noted that the VCN-2000 control module needs to be mounted inside the cabin and not in the engine bay where heat, debris and EMI can affect performance.

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| Central Command for the VCN-2000 is the Venom Nitrous Management Module. It controls all aspects of nitrous flow and fuel enrichment. Venom requires the module be positioned in the cabin away from vibration and EMI that can be found in the engine bay. " The LCD screen is also mounted in the cockpit. It relays system status information to the driver. " Nitrous is metered in the valve assembly and sent to the nozzle located in the intake tract.

From this point, the bottle is mounted in the truck and the 20 feet of hose is run to the engine bay and connected to the valve assembly. The smaller hose with the nozzle is connected to the assembly and the nozzle is plumbed in the intake track prior to the throttle body. The wiring harness is also connected to the assembly.

So the VCN module gets signals concerning TPS, O2 and engine speed and uses these inputs to tune the application of nitrous. The module is also capable of manipulating injector duty cycle to address fuel enrichment via the injector harness.

The biggest revolution of the Venom VCN-2000 is in the tuning of the system. The VCN-2000 software contained on the included Palm Pilot provides three tuning strategies-Linear Mode, Drag Mode and Timed Mode. All three are programmed on the Palm Pilot and downloaded to the module. A button on the module allows the driver to select which mode he wants in control.

Set-Up ScreenAfter calling up the Venom software on the Palm Pilot and using the stylus to tap through the introduction screen, things get serious. The Set-up screen asks for some vital information that will be key in programming the VCN-2000. This data consists of the number of cylinders, ignition configuration and TPS voltage.

Linear ModeThere are no jets in the VCN-2000 to dictate the flow of nitrous. There's also no micro-switch to click over at wide-open throttle to engage the system. How much nitrous is delivered depends on a percentage given by the TPS. The introduction relies on two parameters: activation rpm and throttle angle. These are programmed on the Palm Pilot by tapping the up or down arrows. Only when both parameters are met, say 4500 rpm and 75-percent throttle opening, will the nitrous system fire.

The maximum nitrous percentage field represents the jetting of the system and controls how much nitrous is pumped into the system. In Linear Mode, the nitrous flows in a linear fashion, so as the throttle percentage increases, the flow of nitrous does, too. At 100-percent throttle, all of the programmed nitrous is being injected.

Drag ModeDrag Mode takes it for granted that you will be operating at wide open throttle so the only two tuning parameters are activation rpm and nitrous percentage. Once you hit the programmed engine speed and the hammer is down to the tune of 100 percent, the laughing gas flows. Nitrous ceases only after TPS is less than 100 percent or engine speed falls below the activation point.

Timed ModeThis strategy is similar to Linear Mode but you get all the nitrous programmed in the system when the two tuning parameters, activation rpm and throttle percentage, are met. The user can also program how long the nitrous flows. Not a bad idea; in the heat of battle, you can get carried away, and pistons and valves can cook because of it. Venom doesn't recommend pumping the juice for more than 15 seconds and there should be ample cool-down time between blasts. In fact, 15 seconds is the maximum setting at which the software can be programmed.

DownloadThe final screen downloads the setting to the VCN-2000 module. If you make changes to the program and don't want to download it, the settings can be saved in the Palm Pilot for later use.

ConclusionThe Venom VCN-2000 is in the high-price range, but its three-headed tuning strategy makes it an ideal choice for traction-challenged front-drive cars and vehicles that will see the strip occasionally. Venom uses the best quality components and puts the power of tuning right in the palm of your hands.